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Gaming keyboards are intricate products designed to help you reach your top gaming potential, and that is why every professional or semi-professional gamer will have one of these keyboards.
Every feature of their design, from key type to display characteristics to durability, is thought out and ideal for the demands of the gaming world.
The lighting systems, key programmability, advanced comfort, adjustability, and longevity are all things that gaming keyboards are better at offering than standard keyboards.
If you’re ready to take your gaming skills to the next level, or you just want to explore some more professional designs for work purposes, a gaming keyboard may be right for you.
Buying a keyboard may seem like a pretty simple decision, not requiring much research or thought. However, gaming keyboards are complex products with technical features and performance outputs that need to be considered.
Complexity varies and every gamer will be suited to a different combination of features.
To help guide you in the right direction, we have evaluated 38 products over 39 hours, and considered 1325 consumer reviews to highlight the best gaming keyboards in Canada.
Following our last update, we recommend the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard for its durability, performance, and overall user experience.
Our Top Pick Gaming Keyboard in 2023
Overall, the SteelSeries Apex Pro mechanical gaming keyboard is just about the best gaming keyboard you can possibly purchase. Its price is reliably indicative of its value in both performance and technical standards, so you will be able to excel at any game you put your focus on.
Pros:
- Adjustable actuation distance for custom sensitivity
- Magnetic removable wrist rest
- Smart display
- Great durability
Cons:
- Wrist rest is hard and unpadded
Our selection of the best models available right now:
Gaming Keyboard Comparative Table
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Top Pick
|
SteelSeries Apex Pro
|
9,7
|
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price at Best BuyCheck Price at Walmart |
|
Wireless Pick
|
Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro
|
9,5
|
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price at Best Buy |
|
Budget Pick
|
EVGA Z15 RGB
|
9
|
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price at Best Buy |
Our Pick for The Gaming Keyboard
Presentation of the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Best Overall
SteelSeries
Whether you know what you are looking for in a gaming keyboard or not, the SteelSeries Apex Pro mechanical gaming keyboard has everything you need. It offers great performance outputs, an exceptional user experience, and has better longevity than almost any other model out there.
SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Video Review
What We Think of The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
When it comes to outstanding gaming keyboards, you won’t find much better than this SteelSeries Apex Pro. While priced near the top end of the market, its performance and design elements make it a truly exceptional gaming keyboard for just about everybody. The wrist rest is hard and unpadded, so comfort there might not be stellar, but otherwise, we don’t have anything negative to discuss.
With a key durability rated at 100 million clicks, this will be the longest-lasting keyboard available. The smart display is a more unique feature to this model, and it will greatly improve your user experience. While the wrist rest is uncomfortable, it is magnetic and easily removable, so you could certainly swap it out for a different product if this is an important element for your gaming experience.
I recently switched over to this gaming keyboard from my standard one, and I am quite surprised at how useful it is. I knew they were designed to make gaming easier but I didn’t realize just how much difference there would be. I’ve swapped out the wrist rest for my old one so it is more comfortable, but overall, I don’t have any complaints about the appearance or performance.
jacob n.
The RGB backlighting is of very high quality, and with a fully programmable keyboard, you’ll be able to set your macros wherever you’d like, rather than relying on the static locations of pre-determined macro keys. The adjustable actuation distance for these keys means you can customize their sensitivity, allowing you to achieve your greatest gaming performance yet. The right keyboard can truly make all the difference.
SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Specifications
- Connection Type: Wired
- RGB Backlighting: Yes
- Wrist Rest: Yes
- Key Durability: 100 million clicks
- Macro Keys: Fully programmable
- Key Type: Mechanical
- Media Keys: Display control
SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Adjustable actuation distance for custom sensitivity
- Magnetic removable wrist rest
- Smart display
- Great durability
Cons
- Wrist rest is hard and unpadded
Our Final Opinion about the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the SteelSeries Apex Pro mechanical gaming keyboard is just about the best gaming keyboard you can possibly purchase. Its price is reliably indicative of its value in both performance and technical standards, so you will be able to excel at any game you put your focus on.
Our Wireless Pick for a Gaming Keyboard
Presentation of the Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro Mechanical Wireless Gaming Keyboard
The Wireless Pick
Razer
Nearly all gaming keyboards are corded, but this can be a hassle if you travel a lot or you just prefer a more organized desk. The Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro mechanical wireless gaming keyboard is the best model on the market if you’re looking for something that performs well without requiring a physical connection.
Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro Mechanical Wireless Gaming Keyboard Video Review
What We Think of The Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro Mechanical Wireless Gaming Keyboard
Razer is a very well known company for all gaming and computer-related products. It’s no surprise, then, that they make one of the most functional and reliable wireless gaming keyboards you can find on the market. Their 80 million click key durability is incredibly impressive, as most keyboards to no reach this standard. It still uses mechanical keys to give you the clicky sound and typing performance that you enjoy.
To get full functionality out of this keyboard, such as the ability to program macros, you will need to use the Razor Synapse software. Once this is setup however, you shouldn’t have any other issues. Four media keys are built in to make multitasking easier, and the double shot ABS keycaps are essential for its longevity. With Chroma RGB backlighting, you’ll have a great aesthetic at all times as well.
I’ve been using corded gaming keyboards for at least ten years, maybe closer to 15, and this is the first time I have tried out a wireless one. I actually really like it. Some games I don’t need my mouse for, so it is super convenient to be able to recline in my gaming chair and play from there. It can still be used while plugged in and charging, so you won’t have any downtime because of the battery either.
max e.
While battery life is often a concern with wireless keyboards, its connection capabilities will not let you down. You can connect via Bluetooth or over Wi-Fi to suit your setup, and even when it is plugged in to charge, the keyboard is still fully functionally. The ergonomic wrist rest is designed for your long-term comfort, so there shouldn’t be anything stopping you from enjoying as much gaming time as you could want.
Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro Mechanical Wireless Gaming Keyboard Specifications
- Connection Type: Wireless
- RGB Backlighting: Yes
- Wrist Rest: Yes
- Key Durability: 80 million clicks
- Macro Keys: Requires Razor Synapse software
- Key Type: Mechanical
- Media Keys: 4
Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro Mechanical Wireless Gaming Keyboard Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Double shot ABS keycaps
- Wrist rest is ergonomic for long-term comfort
- Can be charged while being used
- Can connect via Bluetooth or WiFi
Cons
- Can’t use macros without Razor Synapse running
- Wrist rest may move around while in use
Our Final Opinion about the Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro Mechanical Wireless Gaming Keyboard
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro mechanical wireless gaming keyboard is the best choice if cords are just not your thing. It has a couple features that fall short of expectations, but you can still rely on exceptional performance outputs and the ability to connect any way you see fit.
Our Budget Pick for a Gaming Keyboard
Presentation of the EVGA Z15 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Budget Pick
EVGA
Improving your gaming game doesn’t need to cost a lot of money if you don’t want it to. The EVGA Z15 RGB mechanical gaming keyboard is one of the most affordable models out there that won’t compromise on the user experience or the performance standards you rely on for success.
EVGA Z15 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Video Review
What We Think of the EVGA Z15 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
EVGA’s Z15 gaming keyboard is one of the most affordable models on the market, but this doesn’t mean that it compromises on great performance. The wrist rest doesn’t have as much adding as we’d like to see, but the only main detriment to choosing this model is the lack of macro functionality. However, if that isn’t a feature that is important to you, you won’t have many other complaints.
As most gaming keyboards are designed this way, you won’t be surprised to learn that it is a wired model with mechanical keys. The 4000Hz polling rate ensures that performance won’t be a problem, and the included media keys will allow you to control media applications on your computer without interrupting your gameplay. This will come in very handy in competitive scenarios, even just with your friends.
I’m pretty happy with the performance of this keyboard considering how much cheaper it is than the other products out there. The clicky mechanical keys feel great to use, and the lighting effects alone make this keyboard way better than my last one. It keeps me engaged and looks cool at night too. The padding on the wrist rest could be better, but it isn’t a huge deal or anything.
carter u.
One of our favorite features is the backlighting system. With 14 pre-set lighting effects, you have all the customizability you could need without needing to actual design or program anything yourself. This will save you the time and hassle that accompanies such tasks. With a 70 million click key durability, you can rely on this keyboard to last you a while, even though it isn’t at the top of the market.
EVGA Z15 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Specifications
- Connection Type: Wired
- RGB Backlighting: Yes
- Wrist Rest: Yes
- Key Durability: 70 million clicks
- Macro Keys: No
- Key Type: Mechanical
- Media Keys: Yes
EVGA Z15 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- 4000Hz polling
- 14 pre-set lighting effects
- Volume scroll wheel and media controls
- Magnetic wrist rest
Cons
- No padding on the wrist rest
- No macro capability
Our Final Opinion About the EVGA Z15 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the EVGA Z15 RGB mechanical gaming keyboard is a fairly impressive product considering its cheaper price tag. It doesn’t offer full functionality that comparable products all have, but it is reliable and has some great control features. The backlighting system is one of the best you’ll find, too.
Alternative Products to Consider
Presentation of the Corsair K100 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Innovative Alternative
Corsair
Not all keyboards are made equal, but many of them will start to run together as you explore the market. If you’re looking for a gaming keyboard that stands out and offers some innovative features, the Corsair K100 RGB mechanical gaming keyboard is the choice best suited to your gaming setup.
Corsair K100 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Video Review
What We Think of the Corsair K100 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Let’s dive right into what makes this Corsair gaming keyboard so innovative and unique. The control wheel built into this model is incredibly functional, as it allows you to control the brightness of your screen, control media, zoom in or out, and scroll through open applications. While this may take some getting used to, you will be able to work more effectively than ever before.
While this is one of the more expensive keyboards designed for gaming, the 100 million click durability of the keys ensures that you will be able to use it for many years before it starts to wear down. This is due largely to the double shot keycaps. The included wrist rest is comfortable and helps increase the gaming experience overall, so long sessions won’t leave you sore and aching.
This Corsair gaming keyboard is one of my favorite ones, and I’ve used close to ten of them over the years. I love this one because of its control wheel; it makes it really easy to control a number of different things all from one button essentially, and it keeps the keyboard neat and tidy, which helps me not hit buttons accidentally when I play hard. I would recommend it, for sure.
leon s.
Since this keyboard is fully programmable, every single key can become a macro to help you be more efficient and successful with whatever games you play regularly. Since this keyboard uses AXON hyper-processing technology, the throughfare will be four times faster than standard keyboards. Throw in 20 lighting affects in 44 different zones, and you have an incredibly innovative and customizable keyboard at your fingertips.
Corsair K100 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Specifications
- Connection Type: Wired
- RGB Backlighting: Yes
- Wrist Rest: Yes
- Key Durability: 100 million clicks
- Macro Keys: Fully programmable
- Key Type: Mechanical
- Media Keys: Control wheel
Corsair K100 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- AXON hyper-processing technology for 4x faster throughput
- Double-shot keycaps for durability
- 20-layer lighting effects with 44 zones
- Control wheel can be used to adjust brightness, control media, zoom, and scroll applications
Cons
- Quite expensive
- Will take some getting used to and requires extensive setup/programming
Our Final Opinion About the Corsair K100 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Corsair K100 RGB mechanical gaming keyboard is one of the freshest and most creative keyboards out there. It will require an experienced gamer to get the setup done correctly, but once you’ve programmed it to your liking, the ease-of-use and overall user experience will skyrocket.
Presentation of the Redragon K512 Shiva RGB Membrane Gaming Keyboard
The High Performance Alternative
Redragon
If immediate performance is your top priority, the Redragon K512 Shiva RGB membrane gaming keyboard is the ideal choice. It is highly affordable, but still offers the best customization and key-recognition accuracy to help you achieve all of your top-level gaming objectives.
Redragon K512 Shiva RGB Membrane Gaming Keyboard Video Review
What We Think of The Redragon K512 Shiva RGB Membrane Gaming Keyboard
If you’re searching the market for one of the rare membrane-key gaming keyboards, this Redragon model should be one of your top considerations. With 26 anti-ghosting keys in place, the responsiveness and overall gaming accuracy provided by this keyboard is unbeatable, since 26 separate keys could all register at once. This ensures you never miss out on a kill or other objective because of a glitchy keyboard.
The backlighting system in this model is also pretty extraordinary. There are 7 pre-sets for you to choose from if you aren’t keen on setting it up yourself, but for personalized displays, there are 6 customizable modes to help you cater to every whim. The media keys will allow you to focus on your game while also controlling media output in the background, and the 6 macro keys offer some extra performance abilities.
I would give this Redragon gaming keyboard an A++. The macro keys are really helpful, and this is my first keyboard with media keys, which is pretty cool. It’s interesting that this is a membrane keyboard, since most gaming ones are mechanical. I find it really comfortable to use, and so far I haven’t noticed any performance issues at all. Everything registers really well, even simultaneous keys.
kevin p.
The detachable wrist rest will be one of the most useful features since you can swap it out with different models if you’re looking for a change or pack the keyboard and accessories more easily for travel purposes. This model has only been tested to 10 million clicks, and while this is a great start, long-term durability is still an unknown for this keyboard.
Redragon K512 Shiva RGB Membrane Gaming Keyboard Specifications
- Connection Type: Wired
- RGB Backlighting: Yes
- Wrist Rest: Yes
- Key Durability: 10 million minimum
- Macro Keys: 6
- Key Type: Membrane
- Media Keys: Yes
Redragon K512 Shiva RGB Membrane Gaming Keyboard Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Wrist rest is detachable
- 7 pre-set lighting patterns and 6 customizable modes
- 26 anti-ghost keys (26 keys can be used simultaneously and all register)
Cons
- Only tested to 10 million clicks, so long-term durability is unknown
Our Final Opinion About the Redragon K512 Shiva RGB Membrane Gaming Keyboard
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Redragon K512 Shiva RGB membrane gaming keyboard is a wonderful choice for anyone on a lower budget that doesn’t want their gaming performance compromised by a poor quality keyboard. Its long-term durability is unknown at this point, but for the foreseeable future at least, it is the best for accuracy and customizability.
Presentation of the Logitech G Pro K/DA Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Portable Alternative
Logitech
If you’re looking for a gaming keyboard that will suit higher-than-average travel needs or has a smaller footprint to suit a smaller desk, the Logitech G Pro K/DA mechanical gaming keyboard is the right fit. Its tenkeyless design and lack of wrist rest make it the most compact, portable model available.
Logitech G Pro K/DA Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Video Review
What We Think of the Logitech G Pro K/DA Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Logitech’s G Pro gaming keyboard has one of the most portable designs on the market, so if travelling for gaming is something you do frequently, you can’t make a better choice. The tenkeyless design dramatically reduces the amount of space this keyboard takes up, and since the USB cable is completely detachable, you won’t damage it when you need to pack your items up for travel’s sake.
The lack of wrist rest also reduces the overall footprint of this keyboard, though you will need to sacrifice on comfort because of it. One of the other problems with the design of this keyboard is that the key sizes and micro-USB slot are not standard, so you won’t be able to customize the design as fluidly as you can with other models. It is likely that the excellent aesthetic and backlighting will make up for these limitations.
I go to gaming tournaments as often as I can, and I used to have to carry my keyboard in a laptop bag because it was just too large for my smaller travel bag. Now, with this Logitech model, I can have the same performance in a smaller keyboard, so I don’t need to bring a second bag everywhere. Travelling is much easier, and I still have the performance and lighting expectations met.
jonas n.
This keyboard is fully programmable to create macro keys wherever you want, and there are also independent media keys included. The backlighting is extremely customizable with 16.8 million colors to choose from. To make up for the lack of wrist rest, the keyboard can be adjusted to one of three pre-set angles to offer some more comfort and improve the overall user experience.
Logitech G Pro K/DA Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Specifications
- Connection Type: Wired
- RGB Backlighting: Yes
- Wrist Rest: No
- Macro Keys: Fully programmable
- Key Type: Mechanical
- Media Keys: Yes
Logitech G Pro K/DA Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- 8 million colors to choose from
- USB cord is detachable
- Tenkeyless design is extra portable
- Three-step angle adjustment for personalized comfort
Cons
Cons
- No wrist rest included
- Micro-USB connection is not standard
Our Final Opinion About the Logitech G Pro K/DA Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Logitech G Pro K/DA mechanical gaming keyboard is designed for portability above all else. It is priced quite reasonably and has some great design features, but it isn’t the most comfortable keyboard, nor as universal as some other models.
Presentation of the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard
The Analog Alternative
Razer
Analog keys are quickly gaining ground when it comes to overall popularity in the gaming world. If you’re searching for an analog keyboard that is durable and fully programmable, the Razer Huntsman V2 analog gaming keyboard is undoubtedly the right choice.
Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard Video Review
What We Think of the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard
This analog gaming keyboard by Razer is one of the most exceptional models if you are looking for keys that are highly customizable. The analog system means you can tailor the actuation point to your preference, so you can use as much or as little pressure as you want to activate a key. This customizable responsiveness ensures you will be able to move faster on your keyboard without ruining a sequence.
Every key on this keyboard can also be programmed as a macro, which will only make you more effective when you game with friends. Of course, if you will be participating in tournaments, these keys won’t be allowed, but they can help out a lot in more unofficial settings. The media key functions can also be changed and function with a dial, so you have excellent control there as well.
One of my favorite things about this Hunstman V2 analog keyboard is how programmable it is. Every key can be turned into a macro thanks to the Synapse 3 software, and there is a lot of other customizability as well. The media dial was a great design choice, and the responsiveness is outstanding. I wouldn’t be surprised to see all gaming keyboards go analog before too long. It’s that good.
mark r.
While this model will require you to have the Synapse 3 software installed on your computer to take advantage of all of its functionality, it is one of the highest performing models out there, so it is worth it. The wrist rest is designed for your comfort, and the double shot keycaps ensure that you won’t be damaging the keys or erasing the font with frequent use.
Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard Specifications
- Connection Type: Wired
- RGB Backlighting: Yes
- Wrist Rest: Yes
- Macro Keys: Fully programmable
- Key Type: Analog mechanical
- Media Keys: Yes with dial
Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Wrist rest is very plush and comfortable
- Analog keys allow for variable actuation points and customizable responsiveness
- Double shot keycaps for durability
- Every key is programmable for macros, and media keys can also be changed
Cons
Cons
- Requires Synapse 3 software for full functionality
Our Final Opinion About the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Razer Huntsman V2 analog gaming keyboard is highly comfortable and has great performance characteristics. The necessity of the Synapse 3 software isn’t ideal, but as gaming performance and key customizability goes, you won’t find better in any other product.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks.
The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying a Gaming Keyboard
How is a Gaming Keyboard Different from a Normal Keyboard.
There are a few key differences between standard keyboards and gaming keyboards. The main structural differences include RGB backlights, media controls, programmable keys, and a preference for mechanical switches over membrane switches. These differences make gaming keyboards more responsive, more durable, and more suited to gaming in general. Gaming keyboards also offer a different experience with a satisfying click, faster-paced typing with fewer errors, and the ability to control more without moving to your mouse.
Are Gaming Keyboards Worth It?
For the most part, yes, if you want to play at a high level and the keyboard has the right features. While any keyboard will allow you to game, gaming keyboards offer faster response times, greater durability, and a few special features like N-key rollover, mechanical switches, and macro keys that will heighten your gaming experience. Casual gamers may not feel a gaming keyboard is worth the investment, but they are worth it for most serious gamers.
How to Properly Choose Your Gaming Keyboard
- Price.
Gaming keyboards have a broad price range. The main differences between a budget keyboard and a high-end keyboard will be the performance and speed of the keys, size of the keyboard, durability, and type of key technology used. Though even the lowest budget options will still outperform a standard computer keyboard, subtle differences in the build and performance of your keyboard can mean the difference between success and defeat in your games, so choosing the best you can afford is a good idea.
- Size.
As you might have noticed when looking at some smaller laptops, not all keyboards have the same number of keys. The “full-sized” keyboard has 104 keys including a dedicated number pad, function keys, directional cursor keys, and a full QWERTY alphanumeric section. If the number pad is important to you, this is the right size. However, many gamers find that the inclusion of a number pad puts their hand too far away from the important keys they need when their hand is on the mouse. The so-called “tenkeyless” size, a keyboard without the number pad, usually gives gamers everything they need and a bit of added speed, along with a smaller footprint on your desk.
- Mechanical vs. Membrane.
Even if you aren’t particularly “techy,” you should still understand the basics of the interior functionality of your gaming keyboard. There are two different ways that a keyboard registers a press: mechanical and membrane. Most standard keyboards use a membrane technology, which are inexpensive, thin, and use a rubber or silicone layer that acts as the spring as well as the electrical contact. For gamers, this usually results in a spongy feel and a small amount of key travel. The mechanical style is taller, “clickier,” and provides better feedback and enhanced precision. They’re also more durable, have more consistent keystrokes, and offer a better typing experience.
- Wired vs. Wireless.
One of the main decisions you’ll make when choosing a gaming keyboard is if you want it to be wireless or not. There are pros and cons to both options, with wireless keyboards offering greater convenience, portability, and a tidier set-up. Wired keyboards, on the other hand, are typically more affordable, faster, reliable, and you won’t have to worry about a failing battery. Both can be used effectively for gaming, but wired is the preferred choice with top-level players for that slight boost of responsiveness and reliability.
- Actuation Distance.
The actuation distance on your gaming keyboard is a key indicator of its responsiveness. Though it sounds highly technical, the actuation distance simply means the distance the key has to travel to make an electrical contact that registers the key press. The shorter the distance, the faster the computer will respond to your keystrokes. The actuation distance is much shorter on mechanical keyboards.
- USB Polling Rate.
The USB polling rate is another performance indicator. The polling rate refers to the speed at which the signals from the keys are sent to the PC. The higher this rate is, the more responsive the keyboard is, and the better it will perform in fast-paced games. The standard polling rate on most high-end gaming keyboards is 1ms, but some may also range up to 5ms.
- Keystroke Signal Processing.
Keystroke signal processing, or KSP, refers to the identification, encoding, and processing of the electrical signal sent from the key to your computer. This is one of the most important performance indicators on a gaming keyboard since it can mean the difference between defeat and victory. This processing ensures that the intended input from the key is sent to the PC. KSP is essentially your keyboard’s internal logic, and a poor KSP system can result in multiple key presses being registered, meaning the keyboard sends the wrong signals to the computer and ruins your game.
- Durability of Keys.
The durability of the keys on your keyboard is an important aspect of its overall quality and level of performance. Most gaming keyboards are rating for 50 million plus keystrokes, and many are also water resistant in case of a spill and have doubleshot keycaps that have thicker walls and more resistant labelling for those most commonly used keys.
- Macro Keys.
Though more commonly associated with gaming mice, macro keys can also be found on some gaming keyboards. Macro keys allow users to program some complex functions within their games that would usually require a longer sequence of keystrokes. Some keyboards have designated macro keys, while other keyboards allow any key to be programmed as a macro key. This feature can be very helpful for competitive gaming among friends but usually isn’t allowed during tournaments and competitions.
- N-Key Rollover.
N-key rollover is usually an essential feature for high-level gamers and players of certain types of games since it allows the keyboard to register more than one keystroke at a time. Most standard keyboards will only register a single keystroke if more than one button is pressed simultaneously, but this can have a big impact on your gaming experience if you’re in a battle for your life and are madly mashing every button within reach – they all need to register.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of gaming keyboards allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
